The Discarded Open “The Green Door” On New Album

The father and sons trio, The Discarded, have released their sixth full-length, The Green Door, that includes the singles Testify!, Going Down To The Beach and Ooh Yeah! The release of The Green Door marks a major moment for The Discarded, showcasing their evolving sound in full. The album merges the raw grit of garage rock with the punch of punk, all while drawing from classic rock influences. Both the single and the album highlight the band’s growth, offering listeners a cohesive, high-energy experience that reflects their signature style. The Green Door was produced by John Critchley who brings a polished yet vibrant feel to the trio’s high-energy sound. Critchley, who first made his mark as the driving force behind 13 Engines, lent his expert touch to The Green Door, helping transform tracks that originated from basement jam sessions in late 2020 into a dynamic, cohesive record. His years of experience, from working on Juno-winning projects to crafting critically acclaimed albums, shine through in the production, making the ten tracks feel both gritty and refined.

Integral to shaping the album’s sonic identity is Michael McKenzie, a veteran of the Canadian rock scene who has toured with acts like The Goo Goo Dolls, The Tragically Hip, and Alanis Morissette. His versatile guitar work, ranging from garage rock riffs to ’60s and ’70s-inspired solos, adds new depth to The Discarded sound. Whether riffing on tracks like Testify! or layering intricate melodies on Ooh Yeah!, McKenzie’s contributions help elevate the band’s evolving musical style. The album, recorded between Green Door Studios and McKenzie’s Red House Academy, is a testament to his ability to blend genres, from punk to classic rock, creating a rich, multi-layered experience. At the heart of The Green Door is Joel Wasson, whose roots in the Canadian punk and alternative scenes form the backbone of the band’s sound. From his early days in Peterborough’s first punk band to his work in Toronto’s hardcore scene, Joel’s energy and passion drive the album forward. His collaboration with his sons, Jared and Caden, brings a familial synergy to the project, making The Green Door both a personal and musical milestone.

Together with Critchley’s production and McKenzie’s guitar mastery, The Discarded have crafted an album that captures the raw energy of live performances while delivering a thoughtful, powerful collection of songs. The album cover for The Green Door was inspired by a WWII graveyard in Bayeau, France near the D-Day beaches. The artwork was envisioned by JP’s son, Caden, and brought to life by illustrator Rachael Muir. The cover depicts a symbolic Green Door as a portal to another dimension or heaven, looking back onto a graveyard scene, reflecting the album’s themes of introspection and existential wonder.